Annona fruit borer

Systematic position: Stenoma anonella is a destructive insect species belonging to the order Lepidoptera, classified within the family Elachistidae or Stenomidae. This pest is a significant concern for tropical agriculture, particularly in regions where Annona species are cultivated.

Host plants: The pest is strictly specialized in feeding on various species of the family Annonaceae. Its primary hosts include soursop (Annona muricata), cherimoya (Annona cherimola), and sugar apple (Annona squamosa), causing severe economic damage in these orchards.

Biology and life cycle: The insect goes through complete metamorphosis. Adult moths are nocturnal and deposit their eggs on the surfaces of flowers or developing fruit. Once hatched, the larvae bore into the fruit tissue, feeding internally and protecting themselves from external environmental factors and predators.

Damage and economic impact: The damage caused by the larvae results in the loss of fruit quality and quantity. By tunneling through the pulp and seeds, larvae facilitate secondary fungal infections and cause fruit rot. Affected fruits frequently drop prematurely, leading to massive harvest reductions if not managed appropriately.

• Deploying pheromone traps to monitor adult moth populations.
• Sanitation practices: prompt removal and destruction of infested fruit.
• Application of biological control agents, including parasitic wasps.
• Selective use of insecticides targeted at the larval entry phase.
• Maintaining healthy orchard vigor through balanced fertilization and pruning.